DLLR News

Tips for a Memorable, Injury-Free Summer at Maryland's Fairs, Boardwalks and Amusement Parks

BALTIMORE, MD (June 10, 2011) — Across the state, students, teachers
and parents are celebrating the final days of the school year and
looking ahead to summer recreation. To ensure that all Marylanders
- and all Maryland visitors - can enjoy summer rides safely, the Maryland
Department of Labor Amusement Ride Safety Unit has deployed inspectors
to amusement parks, fairs, festivals and other popular destinations.

“Summertime is the time to build memories with friends and family.
DLLR's inspectors are working tirelessly to protect those memories
from injury. We are committed to making 2011 the safest summer on
record," said Maryland Labor Secretary Alexander M. Sanchez.
"While we have inspected rides across the state, safety involves
everyone. If you're going to an amusement park or a county fair this
summer, remember to follow the instructions of the ride operators
and watch your children while a ride is in progress.”

To date, during FY11, the Amusement Ride Safety Unit has inspected
nearly 4,400 rides and identified just over 2,000 violations - more
than 1,900 of which were corrected on-site. During the fiscal year,
which ends at the end of the month, one accident and four incidents
were reported to the Unit.

The Department of Labor has released important safety tips to make
the summer of 2011 fun, memorable and safe for everyone.

Tips for amusement park riders:

Look for posted safety instructions, read and follow the rules.

Observe height and weight restrictions.

Follow instructions of the ride operator.

Check to see if the ride operator is properly identified (wearing
a uniform or an identification badge).

Keep hands, arms and legs inside at all times.

Use safety equipment, including seat belts and shoulder harnesses.

Stay in the ride until it comes to a complete stop.

Tips for parents with children:

Watch while the ride is in progress to monitor your child's
safety.

Follow the instructions of the operator before, during and after the ride.

Explain appropriate and safe behavior to your child. Advise them to remain seated, keep hands and feet inside and follow the operator's instructions.

Ask the operator to stop the ride if the child cries or is in distress.

If an amusement ride appears unsafe, or if the operator does not follow safety guidelines,
notify an official at the park, carnival or fair immediately. If an unsafe or dangerous condition exists,
you can also call, email or fax the Amusement Ride Safety Inspection Unit at (410) 767-2990,
safe4u@dllr.state.md.us or fax (410) 333-7721.

The Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation protects and empowers Marylanders by safeguarding workers,
protecting consumers, providing a safety net and cultivating a thriving workforce that can meet the demands of
Maryland’s dynamic economy. Follow DLLR on Twitter (@MD_DLLR)
and Facebook.